This album was recorded at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh, UK, in March 2003, and was produced by Andrew Keener.
Composer Biography
Sibelius's reputation is built on his symphonies and tone poems, but his theatre music, including the works on this album, contains some of his finest scores.
Composer's Artistic Vision
In his stage music, Sibelius aimed to set scenes, create atmosphere, or provide preludes and intermezzos for exotic or mystical dramas, rather than directly accompanying dramatic action.
Performer Biography
Joseph Swensen, the conductor, was born in New York in 1960 and is of Norwegian-Japanese descent; he now lives in Copenhagen.
Performer Biography
Before becoming a conductor, Joseph Swensen had a successful career as a professional violinist, performing as a soloist with major orchestras.
Historical Context
The early 1900s, when Sibelius wrote much of his theatre music, was a significant period for drama in Finland, influencing cultural and social attitudes.
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